Moore criticised over ‘choreographed’ Argyll & Bute visit

Published:15:54Tuesday 19 February 2013

The SNP has criticised Scottish Secretary Michael Moore for organising a “carefully choreographed” visit to Argyll and Bute which the party says is “designed to avoid difficult questions from angry residents about the UK Government’s swingeing welfare cuts”.

Mr Moore will attend meetings and photo opportunities in Dunoon and Rothesay on a flying visit, but was has been attacked by Michael Russell, the SNP’s MSP for Argyll and Bute, for not scheduling any time to discuss the controversial ‘bedroom tax’ and other changes to the welfare system due to be implemented in April.

Mr Russell said: “I am disappointed that Mr Moore has not allowed any time to listen to the genuine concerns of people about these draconian cuts being imposed by his London Government.

“People are genuinely struggling with the high cost of fuel, heating and rising food costs. They are feeling extremely let down by Mr Moore and his Liberal Democrat colleagues at Westminster who have reneged on a whole range of pre election promises.

“These welfare cuts will be the final straw for many, particularly the bedroom tax, which will affect 1,400 households in Argyll and Bute. It’s no wonder Mr Moore is avoiding the risk of being asked awkward questions.”

Mr Moore’s time on Bute will include visits to the community-owned Bute Forest at Rhubodach and to a gathering of local businesses to hear about the ‘Totally Locally’ initiative, set up to encourage people to shop in their local communities.